Baked Salmon Recipe
Bake tender salmon fillets with garlic, lemon, olive oil, and herbs in just 15 minutes. This easy weeknight recipe delivers juicy, flaky fish with lightly roasted edges and vibrant flavor.
Equipment
- Large baking pan
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon cracked black pepper (just a pinch if using finely ground black pepper)
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon Italian herb seasoning blend (OR herbs de provence, or ¼ teaspoon each dried thyme, parsley, oregano, and basil)
- 1 medium lemon
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 400°F and grease a large baking pan, then place the salmon fillets on the pan and season them with salt and pepper. Arrange the fillets skin-side down if they have skin, keeping a little room between them for even roasting.
- Mix the olive oil, minced garlic, herb seasoning, and juice from half the lemon, then rub the mixture over the tops and sides of the fillets. Slice the remaining lemon half thinly and place a slice over each piece; the coating should look glossy and evenly distributed.
- Roast for 12 to 15 minutes, checking the thickest portion near the end of the cooking time. The salmon is ready when it is opaque and separates into soft layers with light fork pressure.
- Broil for the final 1 to 2 minutes if desired, then garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired before serving. Watch closely under the broiler because the garlic can darken quickly once the edges begin to turn golden.
Notes
Doneness: Salmon is ready when it becomes opaque and flakes under gentle fork pressure, reaching an internal temperature of 125°F to 135°F for a tender center. Let the fillets rest for 3 to 5 minutes before serving so the juices redistribute.
Pan prep: Lining the baking pan with parchment paper helps the skin release effortlessly and prevents the fish from sticking.
Reheating: Reheat leftovers gently in a low oven loosely covered with foil and topped with a fresh lemon slice to keep the flesh moist.
Nutrition information is an estimate based on common ingredients and serving sizes. Values may vary depending on brands, portions, and substitutions.